015 How To Propose Business Plan Your Boss Img Wa0006

Developing Planning Modules: Compartmentalizing your plan by developing planning modules or "chunks" allows you to attack the plan in parts, yet still maintain a cohesive plan. I have found that developing an annual plan made up of quarterly targets _ thus becoming a rolling quarterly forecast financial model _ allows for a cohesive structure along with the nimbleness to react to market conditions. At the end of each quarter, a true_up process to align results to annual targets needs to be re_forecast and adjustments made.

I have been putting together business plans for over 25 years and it is clear to me that the strength of its core rests solely on being able to execute the plan. Each year I approach business planning as an opportunity, rather than a burden. I would rather invest the time up front in mapping out the upcoming year, than leaving it to chance to dictate my strategy. While this may force me to think strategically as well as tactically, preparing a detailed business plan in advance enables me to identify the challenges in advance of actually facing them.